Molly's Christmas Miracle Read online

  She stared at him, astounded by his kind gesture. “I guess that would be alright.” She was still pensive, but she was hungry, and supper at the diner sounded much more palatable than scrambled eggs.

  Daniel Emerson grinned at her, then guided her toward the diner.

  * * *

  Molly arrived at A Stitch in Time early. It wouldn’t do to have her customers waiting on the doorstep for her.

  What would people think? What would Daniel think? Especially after he’d treated her like a queen last night.

  She was sure she wouldn’t get through the huge meal placed in front of her, but with Daniel’s encouragement she did.

  And she felt better for it.

  She grinned. She’d had supper with a very nice gentleman. That stopped Molly in her tracks. It had been a first – she’d never been invited to supper before. Not by a man anyway.

  She felt her cheeks heat up, then shook herself. It wasn’t as though they’d been on a date. Daniel had made it clear the invitation was a thank you for accommodating his sister at the last minute.

  Off the fitting room, right down the back of the shop, was another room. It was similar to a kitchen, only tiny. Aunt Rose had realized long ago a small wood stove would be to their advantage. The fire was always burning, even in the summer, and a kettle full of water always on the boil. Sewing was thirsty work, she always said. Molly smiled at the memory.

  There were two small cupboards with locks, and they’d always been for the women to place their personal items. You never knew who would come into the store.

  Molly put her reticule in the small cupboard, as well as her sandwich and apple for lunch.

  She’d just finished securing the lock when she heard the tinkle of the bell.

  “Good morning,” she heard Daniel call out.

  She rushed into the main part of the store, anxious to show Eloise her sketch. “Good morning,” she said excitedly.

  “I enjoyed supper last night,” Daniel said.

  She smiled at him, but Eloise didn’t seem impressed. “You had supper together? Why didn’t I know about this?”

  Daniel turned to her and frowned. “You were asleep, and I was hungry. I bumped into Molly at the wishing well.”

  “I, I’m sorry, Miss Emerson,” Molly began. “It won’t happen again.”

  Daniel intervened quickly. “I hope it does, and it has nothing to do with my sister, or our transaction.” He made it perfectly clear what he thought of his sister’s interference, and it sent warmth down Molly’s spine.

  He turned to smile at her. “We don’t want to hold you up, Molly.”

  “You’re on first-name terms?” Eloise did not seem at all happy, but Molly decided to ignore her comment. Besides, Daniel was right – it was none of his sister’s business.

  Eloise glared at him, but Daniel chose to ignore her, instead focusing on Molly. “What do you have there,” he asked, indicating the sketch pad in her hands.

  “After you left last night, I had an idea.” She lifted the sketch pad to show them.

  Daniel grinned, and his sister’s eyes opened wide. Her hands went to her heart. “Oh my goodness, that is stunning!” she said, making Molly’s heartbeat quicken.

  “If you’re happy with this design, we can start right now.” She ushered Eloise into the fitting room, leaving Daniel standing in the store. “Come back in an hour,” she told him, then turned to her customer.

  “First I’ll need to get some measurements. Then you’ll need to make some decisions – about fabric, ribbons etc.”

  Eloise nodded, but barely said a word. Molly wondered if Eloise was still cross at her for dining with her brother.

  The hour seemed to go quickly, and Daniel came back on time as requested. Molly handed him an account for the gown, deposit and payment plan laid out clearly.

  He seemed taken aback by it, and she worried it was too much. Her heartbeat quickened waiting for him to speak.

  “This is terrible, Molly,” he said, and she immediately felt ill. Had he changed his mind? She couldn’t make it any cheaper, it wouldn’t be worth her while. “You need to ask for full payment upfront. What if you did all that work, and the customer pulled out at the last minute?”

  She stared at him. What did he mean? It’s the way Aunt Rose worked, and she followed suit.

  “You are in business. People are used to paying before the product is provided.” He reached into his pocket and pulled out a hand carved leather wallet.

  Her eyes opened wide at the wad of notes she saw there. He counted out the full amount stated on the account, then added an additional forty dollars.

  She handed the excess back to him. “I can’t take that,” she said quietly. “But thank you.”

  He frowned. “You can, and you will. You are arriving early to work to accommodate my sister, and you will be paid for it. Take it as a bonus, as we first discussed.”

  She bit on her bottom lip. What should she do?

  “You must take it. Please.”

  Eloise stepped forward. “You must Molly. I know the gown will be beautiful. Besides, Daniel can afford it.” She grinned and he frowned at her.

  He pulled out his pocket watch. “We must leave. Molly has another customer arriving shortly. When do you want to see Eloise again?”

  “How long are you in Fool’s Chance? I can make it the same time tomorrow if you’re still around.”

  “We will be here as long as it takes. Arrangements can be fluid.” He tipped his hat and guided his sister toward the door.

  Molly looked down at the wad of money in her hand. She would have to run to the Mercantile and deposit it in the bank before her next customer arrived. She didn’t want to risk having such a large amount of money in the store – even locked in the cupboard out back.

  Chapter Three

  Molly was locking up when she heard a sound behind her and startled.

  “It’s just me, Daniel.”

  She turned, and the moonlight played across his face. It was a nice face, with his shiny brown eyes and wavy brown hair to match, and his clean shaven jaw.

  He was always dressed impeccably – she hadn’t seen him in anything but tailored suits. Her eyes slid downwards at his leather shoes peaking out below the hem of his trousers. When she looked up again he was grinning.

  She’d been caught. Molly knew she was blushing; the heat in her cheeks told her so. Thank goodness he couldn’t see it in the moonlight.

  He leaned forward and brushed her cheeks with his fingers. “You look cute when you blush.” She was so wrong, and felt the heat deepen even more.

  At that moment, she wanted the ground to open up and swallow her.

  “It’s alright, Molly. I don’t mind.” He pulled his hand away, and she felt hollow. When did a man’s touch light up her whole being?

  This was a first for her. Molly had always been far too busy to have anything to do with men. Not that anyone had ever been interested.

  “You look lovely, by the way.” He offered his arm and she hooked hers through it. “I booked a table for two at the diner. I hope you don’t mind.”

  She stared at him. “I, I…”

  “Don’t argue. We both need to eat.”

  “I…” How did she say this? “I can’t afford to eat at the diner every night.” She forced the words out quickly.

  He watched her carefully. “What sort of gentleman would I be if I invited a young lady to supper and let her pay?”

  Molly couldn’t look at him, she felt so embarrassed. He reached out and gently held her chin, forcing her to look at him.

  “I’m sorry,” she said softly. “I didn’t mean to infer anything.”

  “How many young gentlemen have invited you out then made you pay?” He frowned, obviously annoyed.

  She swallowed hard. She didn’t want to admit it, but had little choice. “You’re the first gentleman to have ever invited me to supper.”

  His eyes opened wide. “What fools must live in this town!�
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  She stared up at him, trying to hide her grin, but failed miserably.

  “There you go. That’s what I like to see.” He tightened his grip on her and headed toward the diner. “Tell me about this wishing well. I hear it’s supposed to have magical powers.” He chuckled as they walked past it.

  “I’m sure it does,” she said softly. “I feel drawn to it every time there’s a full moon.”

  “What utter nonsense.” He stared down at her and grinned.

  She stopped walking and stared up at him. “I’m not sure I can dine with someone who ridicules our magical well,” she said, forcing a serious look on her face.

  He frowned at her. “You’re not serious?”

  “No, I’m not.” She laughed at his reaction, and he joined her.

  “Oh, thank goodness for that. You had me for a moment there.”

  Molly enjoyed strolling through town on the arm of a true gentleman. She could surely get used to it.

  * * *

  Daniel walked Molly home.

  Her little cottage was a short distance outside of Fool’s Chance, and he worried about her going there alone. She’d explained she and her aunt always walked home together, so there was no problem, but now…

  Now it was downright scary. Walking home alone in the darkness with only the moonlight to guide her terrified Molly each and every night.

  He vowed to escort her home each night while he was in Fool’s Chance. After that? He didn’t want to think about it.

  Molly was special. She made his heartrate kick up whenever she was near. Warmth flooded his entire body when he touched her, and he relished it.

  “Here we are,” she said, digging into her reticule for the key.

  He reached over and took it out of her hand, unlocking the door. His skin tingled where he’d touched her. “Molly…” He gazed into her blue eyes. They were bright like sapphires under the moonlight. She stared at him momentarily then tore her eyes away.

  “Thank you for a lovely night, Daniel. The meal was wonderful, and I really appreciate you walking me home.”

  She turned to go inside. He didn’t want the night to end.

  “I enjoyed your company, Molly. Perhaps we can do it again.”

  She seemed to contemplate him. “That sounds lovely.”

  He couldn’t help but grin. “Tomorrow night then? I’ll pick you up at the store.”

  She frowned at him. “You can’t take me out every night. It’s far to expensive.”

  “I can, and I will.” He reached for her hand and caressed it. Her skin was so soft. He enclosed her tiny hand in both of his. “Miss Mason,” he said dramatically. “Will you accompany me to supper tomorrow night?”

  She couldn’t refuse such a request, surely.

  He waited patiently as she contemplated his request. “Of course, Mr Emerson.” She laughed as she spoke the words.

  He loved it when she laughed, which sadly wasn’t very often, and he wanted to see more of it.

  Molly worked far too hard, and he suspected for far too little. He wanted to help her change that.

  “Well, goodnight, Daniel,” she said, but he didn’t want the night to end. He needed to find a way to detain her longer, to give him more time with her.

  “I hear there’s a dance at the church hall in a few weeks, Molly. Will you accompany me?”

  She stared at him, defiance written all over her face. “I thought you’d be gone by then. You and Eloise.”

  Why did she think that? He was staying at least until the gown was finished. If he had his way, not even once it was done.

  His heart fluttered. “I’ve decided to make it a mini holiday. I want to see more of this lovely countryside.”

  “Oh? What about your job? Won’t they be upset with you?” She frowned at him. She really had no idea.

  He shrugged, giving nothing away. “It’s all sorted. I am on extended leave.”

  “Oh. Goodnight then.” She turned to leave, and as much as he wanted her to stay, he knew he had to leave her.

  “Goodnight. I’ll see you in the morning.”

  She closed the door, and he stood there for a few minutes, absorbing her fragrance which still lingered. Finally he walked away, relishing seeing her again the next morning.

  * * *

  Molly had worked every spare moment on the gown for Eloise. It was her best yet, she was certain of it.

  Eloise stood rigid as the seamstress pinned the bodice in place. “Are you enjoying your time in Fool’s Chance?”

  “Not really. I’m finding it rather boring.”

  She could understand that. There wasn’t a lot to do in the little town. Unless you worked or were involved with the ladies auxiliary at the church. Most of the married women here were.

  “I’m sorry to hear that,” Molly said, adding another pin to the garment. She straightened the material and walked all around Eloise, then nodded. “That looks perfect.” She stretched her neck to check her diary. “If you can come back at three, we can do a quick fitting.”

  Eloise sighed. She was obviously fed up. “I promise there won’t be too many more. The initial fitting sessions are tedious, I know. Once we get beyond that, it will all be behind us.” She smiled and the other woman smiled back.

  A rare occurrence.

  The bell tinkled and warmth flooded her. “I think your brother is here.”

  She closed the fitting room door, giving Eloise privacy. “It’s coming along nicely,” she said in way of greeting.

  She was filled with joy over this creation, but also filled with dread. Once the gown was finished, Daniel would leave Fool’s Chance and return to Ellisdale. She’d most likely never see him again.

  His face fell. Did he feel the same way?

  “I’ve asked Eloise to come back at three today. It will only be a short session. Thirty minutes at most.”

  He took a step toward her. “Thank you for everything you’re doing for my sister,” he said, reaching for her hand. When you’re not so busy, I’d like to organise more gowns for her.”

  She stared down at their intertwined hands. Warmth flooded her and she wanted to pull her hand away. At the same time she didn’t.

  She knew what was happening – she was falling in love with the man standing before her. Soon he would be gone, and Molly would have to continue her life without him.

  Go back to how her life was before. Cold and dreary, with no one to share her time with.

  She was filled with dread.

  “Are you alright, Molly? You’ve suddenly gone white.”

  He seemed very concerned for her, but Molly couldn’t allow herself to be drawn in further than she already was. She straightened her back and looked up at him. “I’m fine, thank you for asking.”

  She turned as the door to the fitting room opened. Daniel dropped her hand.

  “Ah, there you are,” he said to his sister. “I hear it’s coming along splendidly.”

  “It’s beautiful, it truly is.” She smiled at Molly, then proceeded to head toward the main door. “I’ll see you at three.”

  There was a skip in her step. Something that wasn’t there when they first met. At that time, Eloise had a morbid air about her, but it seemed to have gone. Daniel was right – Eloise had needed this.

  It was such a pity it had ruined Molly. Or at least her perception of normal. Daniel Emerson had turned her life upside down.

  Chapter Four

  Saturday morning rolled around quickly.

  It was normally her day off, but Molly had so much to do. She especially wanted to finish the gown for Eloise to wear to the Christmas Gala.

  At the same time she didn’t. Finishing that gown meant Daniel would leave town. And that was the last thing she wanted. She was enjoying his company far too much.

  Molly finished washing her breakfast dishes and was about to put her hair up when there was a knock at the door.

  Who on earth could be calling at this hour?

  She brushed her hands d
own her poplin dress, to ensure there were no creases. She opened the door gingerly – it was rare for her to get visitors, especially on a Saturday.

  She peeked around the wooden door, and saw Daniel Emerson standing there. She opened the door wider.

  “Oh! Good morning,” she said, her surprise very evident in her voice.

  “Good morning,” he said cheerfully, as if it was not unusual for him to call on a unattached woman this early. On a Saturday no less!

  He stood there gazing at her. She frowned.

  “Did you want something, Daniel?”

  “I did indeed. But first let me say how beautiful you look today, Molly.” She felt the heat creep up her face, and he laughed. “I love it when you blush. You look so cute.” He chuckled, but she couldn’t see the funny side.

  She looked down at her pale blue gown. “This old thing?”

  “Anything looks beautiful on you.” He reached out and touched her hair. “This is the first time I’ve seen you with your hair down. You should wear it down more often.”

  She ignored his comment. “Was there something you wanted?” She had things to do, and was getting impatient with his games.

  “Yes, of course. Forgive me,” he said. “I was overwhelmed by your beauty.” He looked behind him and indicated a wagon. “I thought we could explore the countryside. My sister feigned illness so she didn’t have to tag along.”

  Molly raised her eyebrows. “You wish me to do this without a chaperone?” What was he thinking?

  Now it was his turn to frown. “I was thinking it would be nice to spend this sunny, albeit slightly cool, Saturday with you.” She looked up at him and took pity. He looked totally deflated at her response. “I even hired a wagon, as you can see.”

  “Well, in that case, it’s perfectly alright,” she said rather sarcastically.

  He stood in front of her laughing. Not just a chuckle, but a full-blown, in your face laugh. How terribly rude of him!

  “I had intended to spend the day working on your sister’s gown,” she said flatly, then turned around and went inside, leaving him waiting on the doorstep.

  “Molly?” he said quietly, still standing there, planted to the spot.